Many of us who grew up in the 1960s watched “The Andy Griffith Show” and its popular spin off, “Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.” Gomer was played by Jim Nabors. Gomer’s ubiquitous “GOLLYEEEEE,” which he uttered almost every time he opened his mouth to say something, will always be remembered by those of us who watched the shows. And I always smile when I hear it.

Then there’s Little Richard’s “Good Golly Miss Molly.” Did you know that Miss Molly was a gay whore? I didn’t until I actually looked up the lyrics because I never could understand Little Richard while he was belting out the song. On the surface, the song may sound like a man enjoying watching a woman dance, but Molly is also a euphemism for a gay prostitute. Rock and roll has used euphemisms in many songs. ZZ Top’s “Pearl Necklace” actually refers to the drops of a man’s ejaculation on a woman’s chest resembling a pearl necklace. Euphemisms in song lyrics are often used to get past the censors for airplay. Oh, I was so innocent back in the day.

Learning the history of words and phrases, as well as the slang meanings, can add to your writing in subtle ways. Catchy words or phrases used by a character can make that character more memorable.